⚠️ 730 Days · IMM 5444 · URGENT

Permanent Resident
Card Renewal

Your PR card is expiring soon? Act now — without a valid card, you cannot return to Canada by plane or boat.

Urgent Consultation → Assess My File
⚠️
IMPORTANT: Your PR card does not prove your status — it proves your right to travel.

The permanent resident card does not confirm your permanent resident status in itself. It only serves to prove your right to re-enter Canada by plane or boat. Even if your card has expired, you may still be a permanent resident — but you will not be able to board an international flight to Canada without a valid card or a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD).

Fundamental Rule

The Residency Obligation: The 730-Day Rule

To maintain your permanent resident status, you must meet a minimum residency obligation set by Canadian law.

730 minimum days required in any 5-year period
5 years rolling reference period
2 years equivalent in calendar years

✅ What Counts

  • ✓Days physically present in Canada
  • ✓Days abroad accompanying a Canadian citizen (spouse or parent)
  • ✓Days abroad employed directly by a Canadian company
  • ✓Days abroad accompanying a PR employed by a Canadian company (spouse/child)

❌ What Does Not Count

  • ✗Tourist travel or vacations abroad
  • ✗Studies abroad (unless also employed by a Canadian company)
  • ✗Work for a foreign company even as a Canadian PR
  • ✗Stays in another country for family reasons not related to a Canadian citizen
Timing

When Should You Renew Your PR Card?

Ideal Situation

Card Expires in Less Than 6 Months

This is the optimal time to begin your renewal. Submit your application now to avoid any stress. The standard processing time is approximately 104 days — starting early protects you.

→ Start the renewal process now
URGENT

Card Already Expired

You can no longer travel internationally by plane or boat to Canada. If you are abroad, you need a Permanent Resident Travel Document (PRTD). If you are in Canada, submit a renewal application immediately.

→ Urgent consultation required
Attention

Extended Absence Planned or Ongoing

If you plan to spend more than 6 months abroad, or are already abroad for an extended period, assess your residency obligation before leaving or before returning. Your PR status may be at risk.

→ Consult an RCIC before any decision
Official Form

Form IMM 5444 — Step by Step

The PR card renewal application is made using form IMM 5444, submitted online via the IRCC portal.

01

Form IMM 5444

Complete the permanent resident card application. Available online on the official IRCC website. Every section must be complete and accurate.

02

Photos & Biometrics

2 photos conforming to Canadian passport format. Biometrics may already be on file with IRCC if provided within the past 10 years.

03

Government Fees

Fee of $50 CAD payable to IRCC for the renewal. For loss or theft: $50 as well (add form IMM 5454).

04

Processing Times

Standard time: ~104 days. Urgent processing available if you travel within 45 days — attach proof of travel.

🚨 Urgent Processing

If you need to travel within 45 days, you can request urgent processing of your PR card application. You must provide proof of travel (airline ticket, hotel reservation, employer letter, etc.). This option is not guaranteed but is generally granted with solid proof. Our firm can help you prepare this priority file.

Complete List

Documents to Prepare for Your Application

An incomplete file may result in additional delays or the return of your application. Here is the exhaustive list.

Calculate Your Situation

Residency Obligation — How to Count Your Days

Before submitting your application, it is essential to calculate whether you meet the residency obligation. Here is how.

Calculation Method

Take the last 5 complete years from your application date. Count each day you were physically in Canada or in a qualifying situation (see section 1). Add them up. If the total is ≥ 730 days, you are compliant.

Concrete example:
Mr. Smith became a PR on March 15, 2019. He applies for renewal on March 15, 2024.
Reference period: March 15, 2019 → March 15, 2024 (1,826 days total)

— Days in Canada: 1,300 days
— Vacation in Paris: 45 days (does not count)
— Business trip to Mexico for Canadian employer: 120 days (counts)
— Vacation in Italy: 30 days (does not count)
— Family visit in Morocco: 55 days (does not count)

Total counted: 1,300 + 120 = 1,420 days ✅ (≥ 730)
⚠️ If your total is less than 730 days:
This does not automatically mean you lose your permanent resident status. But your card renewal will be more complex — the IRCC officer will review your file carefully and may schedule an interview. In this case, consult an RCIC before submitting to assess your situation and prepare the strongest possible file.
⏰ CRITICAL DEADLINE

Your Card Expires in Less Than 3 Months?

Contact us NOW — priority processing available. Every week of delay reduces your options.

📞 514 558 1541
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Consultation — PR Card Renewal

Complete file · 730-day verification · IRCC submission and follow-up

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📞 514 558 1541 ✉️ info@pro-immigration.ca
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